Operating Heavy Equipment Safely
Those workers who operate heavy equipment must do so in all kinds of weather. During the summer, they may have to contend with extreme heat in cabs without air-conditioning. And in winter, ice and snow can make getting in and out of equipment hazardous and lead to slips and falls. And when grips and controls are too cold, they may contribute to arthritic conditions in the hand.
To avoid these problems, employers should be sure that all heavy equipment cabs are equipped with adequate air-conditioning in summer and heat in winter. In winter, operators should allow extra time to clean ice and snow from equipment. And when you’re mounting and dismounting the equipment, take it slowly and be carefully. Always face the vehicle and maintain 3-point contact to avoid slips and falls.
Heavy equipment operators are also exposed to high levels of noise daily, and there is plenty of research to demonstrate that excessive exposure to noise in the workplace may create hearing loss. While noise exposures on construction sites are not regulated in every province, industrial regulations, such as those in Ontario, stipulate a maximum of 90 decibels (dBA) exposure for eight hours. A recent study by CSAO reported that many operators in equipment without cabs or with open doors may be exposed to levels exceeding the maximum. Bulldozer operators, for example, were exposed to 102.4 dBA.
To alleviate the possible problems caused by excessive noise, make sure, whenever possible, cabs are enclosed and temperature controlled to encourage operators to keep the doors closed. Also, maintain the equipment periodically, because well-tuned equipment makes less noise. And implement hearing protection programs, especially in heavy equipment without cabs, that includes training in the proper use of plugs and muffs.
Another hazard to heavy equipment operation comes from exposure to diesel exhaust. According to some studies, such exposure can lead to serious lung problems, up to and including lung cancer, in part because of the soot particles and benzene that makes up the exhaust.
To mitigate the possible negative effects of breathing diesel exhaust, always be sure the equipment is in good working condition and properly maintained, paying special attention to the exhaust pipe and check for any leaks in the system.
Heavy equipment operators are exposed to psychological stress and fatigue as a result of the physical conditions described above, as well as the sheer size and power of the equipment, constantly changing site conditions, and the repetitive nature of hand and foot control operation. Operators often tend to work 4 or 5 hour stretches in virtual isolation, responding only to signals from co-workers. During the peak construction season, it’s not uncommon for operators to work 10 or 12 hour shifts, so fatigue can significantly affect their overall psychological well-being.
Employers and supervisors should always be aware of the physical and psychological stress equipment operators must often work under, and incorporate it into their training, and their daily work routines. They should also be trained to do a pre-work warm-up and take frequent enough stretch breaks to reduce the effects of prolonged sitting and vibration. Exercise programs and active forms of recreation to keep fit can improve mental attitude and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injury.
Heavy equipment operation is a difficult and stressful occupation, and employers and supervisors should adopt strategies to reduce common health problems. Any workplace health and safety strategy should include in-depth evaluations of vehicle design and work practices to identify safer, healthier approaches to the work at hand. Training should include methods for preventing musculoskeletal injury, and developing methods for reducing the stress of the job.
Tags: heavy equipment safety, Operator Safety
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